🇩🇰
Denmark
The Blue Planet Aquarium
The Blue Planet Aquarium, officially known as The National Aquarium Denmark, is a captivating spot situated in Copenhagen, Denmark. It is considered the largest aquarium in Northern Europe and houses a vast array of marine life, presenting a comprehensive view of the diversity beneath the sea. The aquarium opened its doors to the public on 22 March 2013, replacing the former city aquarium that was established in 1939.
The Blue Planet Aquarium is designed by the renowned Danish architectural firm, 3XN. It draws inspiration from the fluid shape of a whirlpool when seen from above and symbolizes the life under the sea. The sleek, modern design is built with aluminum plates, reflecting the colors of the sky and the sea, making it a striking feature of Copenhagen's landscape. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed into a spacious foyer with a panoramic view of the ocean tank.
The interior of the aquarium is just as impressively designed as the exterior. It is divided into nine different sections, each representing a unique marine environment. The aquarium contains around 53 aquariums and displays, housing over 20,000 animals across 450 species. Among these exhibits, the largest one is the Ocean Tank, containing 4 million liters of water and featuring creatures like hammerhead sharks and stingrays.
Prominent sections include the Amazonas, filled with piranhas and anacondas; the Coral Reef, showcasing a colorful array of marine life; and the Cold Water section, home to sea anemones and starfish. The Blue Planet Aquarium also features an interactive touch pool, where visitors can touch the rays, and a dedicated area for temporary exhibits.
A significant highlight of this aquarium is the 16-meter-long glass tunnel that provides a 360-degree view of the marine life, creating an illusion of being under the ocean. Moreover, the vast, curved screen in the auditorium offers fascinating insights into the aquatic world through films and presentations.
Over the years, the Blue Planet Aquarium has played a significant role in research and conservation efforts. It has been involved in breeding programs and initiatives to protect endangered species, highlighting its commitment to the preservation of marine biodiversity.
Visiting the Blue Planet Aquarium is not just about observing marine life; it's about immersing oneself in a captivating underwater world, learning about the importance of marine conservation, and being awed by the sheer diversity and beauty of life beneath the sea.